Just next to South Africa’s Kruger National Park, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve is renowned for its high density of wildlife and prolific “Big Five” sightings for visitors on safari. There are a number of accommodations options in this 65,000-hectare reserve, but particularly buzzworthy is the brand-new andBeyond Tengile River Lodge, which has just debuted in a less visited area of the Reserve. The lodge is aiming to provide “a luxury experience that hasn’t been available here before,” to quote the official press release.
Case in point: The nine air-conditioned suites offer expansive living space (think: A private deck with swimming pool, outdoor seating and dining, a built-in bar and a lounge where you can also dine en-suite). Decorated with bespoke pieces by South African designers, the suites overlook the San River from a shady riparian forest—a forest setting that’s unique to the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
andBeyond Tengile River Lodge was built in a sustainable way with local materials, including stones from the nearby Selati railway embedded in the concrete floors, and sand camouflaging the rooftops. In addition, there are water treatment systems to recycle waste water for irrigation use.
All areas of the lodge afford views of the Sand River—including the lap pool, spa and gym. Activities run the gamut, from morning and evening game drives to guided bush walks and birdwatching. Note: For families traveling together, the lodge is suitable for children 12 years and older only. There are two interconnecting suites available.
Good to know: andBeyond Tengile and its Africa Foundation partners work with the Hundzukani Primary School, the Kurhula Secondary School and the Happy Homes Preschool to give back to the local community with medical clinics and school building projects.